Ice Fishing Derby at Twin Lakes

Derby: Grab a Pole, Drill a Hole!

Did you know that the Ice Fishing Derby at Twin Lakes is known as the longest, competitive ice-fishing derby not only in the state, but across the region? That’s no fish tale either! There’s no break in the action, as competitors kick-off early on Saturday morning, Feb. 9 at 7 a.m. and continue overnight until noon on Sunday, Feb. 10.

If you think that sitting on a frozen lake plunking your line into a fishing hole carved more than 12 inches deep into the icy tundra is all there is to the sport of ice fishing, think again! There are good times with family and friends, not to mention the incredible views, fresh air, and mountain sunshine. Of course, the sport itself has its own rewards, but judging from the growing success of the Ice Fishing Derby at Twin Lakes in recent years, ice fishing is becoming increasingly popular across Colorado. So mark the calendar for February 9 & 10, 2019.

Sponsored by the Leadville Rod & Gun Club, the event marks its 21st year in 2019 and has a solid reputation for frozen fun that creates a shanty-town wonderland, bringing folks together for a mid-winter contest of cash and prizes. And no doubt, some of the fish being pulled from that glacial reservoir are impressive, setting the tone for bragging rights that keep local fishing men and women coming back for more; and yes, there’s a kid’s competition too!

Competitors can enter to win cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place for Mackinaw, Rainbow, Brown and Cutthroat fish. Prizes will be awarded on the weight of individual fish caught. Last year’s competition saw a sizable jump in participants with well over 200 competitors vying for the top trout tales. And when you consider those big mackinaw monsters they’ve been drawing up to the surface, the competition is nothing to dismiss. Take the year that Charlie Black’s 30 lbs 5 ¾ oz mackinaw won the blue ribbon of the derby! And Chris Gonzales’ second place catch with his 27 lbs 3 5/8 oz catch was a worthy competitor as Twin Lakes definitely gives up some of the beasts its gained a reputation for in ice fishing circles.

Each fish category has several places. A contestant can enter as many fish as he wants but the LRGC limits each fisherman to winning one cash prize. In the event of a tie weight, the first weight fish in wins the highest-earned prize and the next in the tie would follow in placing. Fish weights and sizes will be posted at the official event headquarters and weigh-in station during the derby weekend is staged at the Twin Lakes Dexter Parking lot.

All competitors should note that all federal, state and county fishing rules apply. It is the responsibility of each fisherman to know the rules and abide by these rules. Fishing regulations will be on hand at the contest and headquarters for reference guides. A current Colorado fishing license must be shown to claim a prize except for youth under age 16.

This is also a great outdoor event for the children, passing down family traditions of winter recreation. Children age 12 & under who participate and place in categories will be eligible for a 1st place belt buckle. Trophies will be awarded to 2nd and 3rd winners in each category. There is NO entry fee for the kids’ competition. However, please note that should the kids decide to enter the “big” competition they can, but once they select their category they cannot switch back (i.e. from trophy to cash prize) and they will pay the same entry fees as adults.

For competitors motivated by great swag, the LRGC delivers, offering some top-of-the-line “bucket” prizes. Each paid contestant will be eligible to win those prizes. Last year, the club gave away over $8,000 in prizes, reported event organizer Angelina Salazar. The entry fee will make the fishermen eligible for numerous bucket prizes which will be on display at the contest headquarters. Drawings for donated items must be picked up the time of the drawing. Items that are not picked up will be drawn until given away. Last year, it seemed no one went home empty handed!

And don’t forget about the raffle which includes the top prizes of a portable ice shanty and an ice auger, as well as this year’s Ruger M77 Bolt Action .22-250 with scope. Tickets are $5 each or take 6 for 20 bucks. You can hit up a LRGC member or contact event organizers Angelina Salazar at 719-293-0567 or Danny Gurule 719-293-5057 to purchase your tickets (available at the derby as well). For the raffle, winners need not be present to win those prizes, but they must be picked up within 30 days.

The entry fee is only $40. For an application CLICK HERE. Paper applications can also be picked up locally at the Leadville Sanitation District office at the corner of McWethy Drive and Highway 24 South and at Saturdays Mercantile, located south of Leadville at 12655 US-24, across from the Little Red Schoolhouse.

Leadville Today will be there, so stay tuned for all the fishing action, photos, videos, and results. It should be a fun winter weekend! So pull out your shanty, grab your pole and auger and head out for some winter fun – and what may be the biggest fish you ever catch.